Opening soon in Dutton is the new Railtown Brewing Company located in the Village Mill Mall on 68th and Mill Run in southeast Grand Rapids. For those who have been to the Cranker’s GR location in Cutlerville which is also on 68th St, Railtown is an approximately 10 minute drive to the east and also just a short trip south of Cascade Winery in Kentwood which is home to Jaden James brewery . The name “Railtown” is nod to Dutton’s origin as the historic location of the Hammond Station train depot. The railroad has long since been eliminated but the brewery plans to pay homage to the town’s lost past and bring back the theme.

Being located in a strip mall has it’s advantages. The brewery will occupy a prime corner location which will also allow room for expansion. While not planning on initially having it’s own kitchen, Railtown will draw from many local restaurants and food vendors for those interested in enjoying a meal with their beverage. Nearby option include (but are not limited to) pizza, BBQ, and hot dogs as well as local food trucks. Railtown Brewing Company is expecting equipment delivery soon and is targeting a late 2014 opening. They have recently unveiled their proposed starting tap lineup of recipes as follows:

Beer #1 - Milk Stout- 27IBU - 4.6% ABV

Beer #2 - American IPA - 58 IBUs - 6.4% ABV

Beer #3 - American Brown Ale - 24 IBUs - 5.1% ABV

Beer #4 - Blonde Ale - 21 IBUs - 5.0% ABV

Beer #5 - Imperial IPA- 103 IBUs - 10.1%

Railtown Brewery Company also recently launched their mug club with a pre-opening sale. The membership is good from opening day as well as through calendar year 2015. The cost is $55 and two options are available, a “Share It!” package and a “Wear it!” package. Both packages include $1 off pours and $2 off growler fills as well as other exclusives including additional discounts to be offered on designated mug club nights. The “Share It!” package comes with a free growler and two pints glasses whereas the “Wear It!” package includes a free t-shirt. The membership also includes 20% off merchandise so you can’t go wrong with either route. Be sure to keep an eye on the Railtown Brewing Facebook page for the latest news.

Dan VK has been following the Michigan Craft Beer scene since before Oberon has been available in 6-packs. Besides making the rounds at all the local craft breweries and beer bars, Dan also supports the local music scene, reads crime fiction, and enjoys playing volleyball with his wife and friends.